The Group of Seven (G7) nations warned Russia on Friday of further sanctions if it does not agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine, presenting a united front despite tensions within the bloc over U.S. President Donald Trump’s approach to allies and Russia.
Meeting at a rural hotel in Quebec, G7 foreign ministers reaffirmed their support for Ukraine’s “territorial integrity” and condemned Russia’s “aggression,” language Trump has previously avoided as he seeks rapprochement with Moscow.
A joint statement backed a U.S.-brokered proposal for a 30-day ceasefire, which Ukraine has accepted, and called on Russia to “reciprocate by agreeing to a ceasefire on equal terms and implementing it fully.”
In addition, G7 countries “discussed imposing further costs on Russia in case such a ceasefire is not agreed, including through further sanctions, caps on oil prices, as well as additional support for Ukraine, and other means,” the statement said.
The G7 also emphasized the need for “robust and credible security arrangements to ensure that Ukraine can deter and defend against any renewed acts of aggression,” though it did not specify what those arrangements would entail.
The G7 talks in Charlevoix, Quebec, brought together ministers from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States.
Beyond Ukraine, G7 foreign ministers also discussed China’s role in global security, stability for the Indian and Pacific Ocean regions, and maritime security behind closed doors.
G7 foreign ministers held a session focused on strategic challenges posed by China, North Korea, Iran and Russia. Many foreign policy analysts and military officials refer to these four nations as the “Axis of Upheaval,” describing their growing anti-Western collaboration.
The G7 joint statement said the group remains “concerned with China’s military build-up and the continued, rapid increase in China’s nuclear weapons arsenal.” They called on China “to engage in strategic risk reduction discussions and promote stability through transparency.”
